Rian Johnson Being Considered For Star Wars: Episode IX

Earlier today, we received the not so shocking news that director Colin Trevorrow had parted ways with Lucasfilm and would no longer be at the helm of Star Wars: Episode IX. We say that we weren’t surprised because truthfully, the signs had been there for some time now, and only grew in intensity after his heartfelt flick, The Book of Henry, was torn to shreds by critics. Adding fuel to the fire was the appointment of screenwriter Jack Thorne (Wonder), who was drafted in to polish Trevorrow and Derek Connolly’s initial script early last month.

In fact, sources close to the as-yet-untitled Star Wars sequel have claimed that Colin Trevorrow had submitted multiple drafts prior to Lucasfilm’s announcement, and it would appear none of those pitches were up to snuff. Perhaps Throne will help allay fears that Episode IX has succumbed to script troubles? Either way, in light of today’s news, the film is now in search of a new director, though that may not be the case for long.

As we saw with the Han Solo spinoff, the studio wastes no time in finding replacements and according to Deadline, they may be heading back to a familiar face for the job, as the outlet claims that Rian Johnson could step in and direct Episode IX once he finishes up with The Last Jedi. This is by no means set in stone, but Deadline notes that the “prospect is certainly in the air right now.”

After all, Johnson had originally signed on to direct two Star Wars films, and just a few weeks back revealed on Twitter that he’d love to get behind the camera for another one. Again, this is far from a done deal, but at this point, we wouldn’t be surprised if Lucasfilm goes back to him for Episode IX, as he clearly works well with the studio and sees eye to eye with them. Not to mention that early buzz surrounding The Last Jedi is very positive.

We’ll have to wait and see what eventually happens here, but if history’s taught us anything, it’s that we should expect Lucasfilm to announce a new director for Star Wars: Episode IX sooner rather than later.